Employment & Auditions

Auditions

Open Chorus Auditions

Candidates should prepare and memorize two selections in different languages, one of which must be an opera aria in Italian, German, or French. The remaining selection may be an art song or an oratorio excerpt. Singers should be prepared to sight-sing a simple choral excerpt. An accompanist will be provided for the use of auditionees who do not provide their own.

The Sight-Singing Test: A test of sight-singing forms part of the audition for all prospective choristers. Satisfactory completion of the sight-singing audition will, for the most part, exempt the chorister from future sight-singing auditions. In some cases, a singer may be provisionally accepted into the chorus despite an unsatisfactory sight-singing audition.

How Your Audition Will Be Judged: Auditions are evaluated on the following criteria:

• a demonstrated level of musicianship with attention to correct pitch, rhythm, dynamics, phrasing, and interpretation
• solid vocal technique
• appropriate diction in the common operatic languages
• large enough sound to carry in the theater
• an appropriate choral sound according to the artistic standard set by the General Director
• the ability to blend the voice
• stage presence
• dramatic sensibility

Auditions are by appointment only. Please send your resume and headshot to music@portlandopera.org. You will be notified by May 15 if you have been granted an audition.

PORTLAND OPERA CHORUS
Auditions for the Portland Opera Chorus are held on a biennial basis. The next round of open auditions is scheduled for spring of 2015. Further details will be available on the audition page at a later date.

SUPERNUMERARY APPLICATION
Portland Opera seeks non-singing performers (supernumeraries or supers) for future productions. Supers perform a variety of roles, from servants to soldiers, and get to experience opera up close and personal from the Keller Auditorium stage. This exciting opportunity allows you to become part of the production on an intimate level. This is a volunteer position with free parking and two passes to the dress rehearsal provided. Please contact Bianca Rios at brios@portlandopera.org for applications.